Up for sale, a 1979 Roland VK-1 combo organ in exceptional condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original hardshell case. Introduced in 1979 as a more affordable and portable single-manual version of Roland’s flagship VK-9 organ, the VK-1 delivers a faithful approximation of the iconic Hammond B3-style sound, à la Jimmy Smith and Booker T. This first-year example has been fully serviced and benefits from work due an instrument of its vintage, including recapping on the divider board and rebuilt traces.

The VK-1 has a wide array of tones on tap, including dark, swirling bass; pristine, ethereal sweetness; and churning haze. The nine drawbars provide a great tactile feel for real-time control, with click-stopped action, and there are three preset tone configurations. Additionally, there are three Percussion (key click) settings, Brilliance and Tuning controls, and an onboard Chorus/Vibrato effect (with Depth and Rate knobs) that, when paired with a Leslie, delivers the most faithful B3 recreation.

This organ has been fully serviced, with numerous modern electrolytic caps to ensure reliable functionality for stage and studio use. The 61 keys have great action, with a satisfying springy bounce, and all nine drawbars function flawlessly, with original tips. The original buttons are all present as well, and the six-digit serial stamp translated to ‘79.

Cosmetical touches include black vinyl on the hinged top panel, faux wood endcaps, and a vibrant orange Roland logo. This particular unit is in great shape, with wear limited to a number of minor scuffs and dings on the bottom, and very few faint marks on the top and sides of the enclosure.

The original Roland black tolex hardshell case is included.